Explore San Diego
Cabrillo National Monument
Type: Great Views, Historic Sites, History Museums, Museums
10Best Says
Don't leave San Diego without visiting the Cabrillo National Monument, perched high on the cliffs at the end of the Pt. Loma peninsula. You'll be awed by the spectacular view onto San Diego Bay,... Read More
Don't leave San Diego without visiting the Cabrillo National Monument, perched high on the cliffs at the end of the Pt. Loma peninsula. You'll be awed by the spectacular view onto San Diego Bay, downtown San Diego, and the mountains looming beyond the skyline. Pose for a photo in front of the massive statue of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, the Portuguese explorer who sailed into port under the Spanish flag in 1542. A museum, run by the National Park Service, tells the story of San Diego's discovery through films and displays. Wander through the Old Pt. Loma Lighthouse, built in 1854, to see how life was then for the lighthouse keeper and his family.
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Hours:
Due to COVID-19, please check with the attraction for the most recent updates to their opening hours. Admissions:
- $5/car, $3 pedestrian; Annual Cabrillo Park Pass (unlimited access for one year) $15
EXPERT TIPS BY:
Katie Dillon
San Diego Local Expert
- Romantic Things to Do: "Follow signs to the tide pools leading down from the monument for a view of fascinating sea life nestled between the craggy cliffs jutting out into the Pacific Ocean."
- Things to Do in Fall: "Follow signs to the tide pools leading down from the monument for a view of fascinating sea life that is revealed at low tides (though it is a pleasant spot during any tide)."
- Best Attractions & Activities: "Plan to spend some time at the tide pools, one of the last and best-preserved rocky Intertidal areas open to the public. They're located below the Cabrillo Monument."
- Sightseeing: "Plan to spend some time at the tide pools, one of the last and best-preserved rocky Intertidal areas open to the public, located below the Cabrillo Monument."
- Attractions near Cruise Port, Outdoor Activities: "Follow signs to the Tide Pools leading down from the monument for a view of fascinating sea life nestled between the craggy cliffs jutting out into the Pacific Ocean."
- Best for Romantic Things to Do Because: The perfect time to catch up on conversation is during a scenic walk at this beautiful National Park. Picnic or just sit and admire the view.
- Best for Things to Do in Fall Because: The Cabrillo National Monument is one of the best places to go tide pooling in fall and winter during day time low tides.
- Recommended as Best Attractions & Activities Because: Cabrillo Monument is an often-overlooked National Park with incredibly scenic views. Kids love it, too.
- Best for Sightseeing Because: It's San Diego's only National Park with spectacular views, picnic areas, historic tidbits and tidepools.
- Best for Attractions near Cruise Port Because: For those who have cars (catching a cab here may be tough) and love National Parks, this is one of San Diego's best views.
- Best for Outdoor Activities Because: This National Park is a fabulous mix of education and entertainment with stunning view to boot.
